Join The Education Trust in Massachusetts and The MassINC Polling Group on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10:00–11:30 AM for a virtual event exploring how parents across the Commonwealth view artificial intelligence (AI) and technology use in schools. As AI rapidly reshapes how we learn, work, and communicate, this conversation will examine both the opportunities it presents and the challenges it poses for students, families, and educators.
The event will highlight findings from our latest statewide parent poll—the 12th in a series launched at the start of the pandemic and made possible by the generous support of The Barr Foundation. Drawing on responses from more than 1,300 Massachusetts parents of K–12 students, the poll offers deep insight into how families perceive AI’s role in classrooms, its potential impact on student learning, and whether some students stand to benefit—or be harmed—more than others.
The event begins with overview of the poll’s key findings presented by Steve Koczela, President of The MassINC Polling Group, followed by special remarks from Andréa Coté, Assistant Director of EdTech at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE). She will provide an overview of DESE’s current initiatives and the Massachusetts landscape.
The event will conclude with a thought-provoking panel discussion on emerging guidance in Massachusetts and across the country, as well as potential policy solutions. The panel will be moderated by Chanthy Lopes of EdTrust in MA. Panelists include:
- Keri Rodrigues, Founding President, National Parents Union
- Dr. Tara Nattrass, Chief Innovation Strategist of Education, Lenovo
- Dr. Almi G. Abeyta, Superintendent of Chelsea Public Schools